21 recommended snorkeling spots in Ishigaki Island! Carefully selected by our Ishigaki Island resident staff!
Enjoy the beautiful sea of Ishigaki Island!
Recommended snorkeling spots.
If you visit Ishigaki Island, snorkeling is an activity you should not miss. Ishigaki Island has been praised by various media for its beautiful underwater world,Plenty of snorkeling spotsIt is.
In this issue, we will introduce recommended snorkeling spots carefully selected by a snorkeling guide of Ishigaki Island.
◆Ishigaki Island for snorkeling
◆Ishigaki Island snorkeling attraction.
◆If you want to know about snorkeling spots in Ishigaki Island
◆If you want to know about recommended snorkeling tours
Ishigaki Island Snorkeling Tour
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Not surprisingly!
What is the Ishigaki Island snorkeling situation?
Before introducing snorkeling spots, we would like to tell you about a surprising feature of snorkeling in Ishigaki Island.
Snorkeling is available year-round!
The winter sea of Ishigaki Island becomes clearer.
Tropical paradise "Ishigaki Island" is not only for summer snorkeling, but also for winter snorkeling if you wear a wetsuit!One of the few precious places in JapanIt is.
Especially in winter, the number of plankton in the water decreases, allowing for a clearer underwater view.
Snorkeling can be enjoyed even on rainy days!
In fact, snorkeling can be enjoyed even on rainy days as long as it is not windy.
You may not be able to see the sparkling surface of the water as you would on a sunny day, but the lack of sunlight makes it easier to spot small fish hiding in the coral as their shadows are less likely to be reflected on the ocean floor.
Once you are in the ocean, you will get wet, so you will not mind so much if it is raining.
You can only go there on a tour!
There are snorkeling spots.
There are only a limited number of snorkeling spots on Ishigaki Island where individuals can go, and the areas with abundant coral reefs and tropical fish areOffshore where you can go by boatwill be.
There are some points where you can go to the beach and snorkel on your own, but the beautiful underwater world you envision is often far from land, and the ocean near the beach is easily affected by rain, so it can be muddy on bad days.
For safety reasons, tour participation is also recommended.
Different snorkeling spots have different tides, so it can be dangerous. The weather in Ishigaki Island is changeable, but with a tour, a guide who knows the ocean of Ishigaki Island will guide you safely andBest point of the dayYou can snorkel in the
Ishigaki Island Snorkeling Tour
Click here to see the popularity ranking
Why little kids can snorkel, too.
Enjoy just floating☆.
Those who are not good swimmers or small children may have some concerns about snorkeling, but life jackets are provided so they will not sink.
In Ishigaki Island, there are many tropical fish swimming in shallow water, so you can enjoy just floating around.
Also, there are areas around Ishigaki Island where coral reefs are rising in some places,Snorkeling in shallow waterYou can also do this.
11 Snorkeling Spots on Ishigaki Island
There are many scenic snorkeling spots on Ishigaki Island, and we will introduce some of the most popular spots recommended by our local staff.
Please experience the emerald green sea so clear that you can see the bottom of the sea♪
◆Abundance of coral reefs and tropical fish
◆Tidal currents (is it a safe place to snorkel?)
◆Accessibility
Phantom Island (Hamashima)
Phantom Island (official name: Hamajima), located about 30 minutes by boat from Ishigaki Island, is called "Phantom Island" because it appears and disappears depending on the tide level.
Surrounded by the sea in 360°, it has been used in TV commercials because of its beauty. It is a must-visit spot that is sure to be a photo-stealing experience!
A spectacular contrast of white sandy beaches and cobalt blue sea awaits you.
Because of the shallow water, families can enjoy it with small children.
↓ Plan to enjoy in Phantom Island ↓
↓ Learn more about Phantom Island ↓
See more recommended plans for Phantom Island
Shihsi Lagoon
Ishinishi lagoon (Seokuseiko) is located between Ishigaki Island and Iriomote Island, hence the name.One of the largest coral spots in JapanThe area is a mere 300 square kilometers in size! It is 300 square kilometers in size!
This area of the ocean isIriomote-Ishigaki National ParkThe area is also designated as a "snorkeling spot" and should be visited at least once for snorkeling.
Phantom Island" is also close to Ishinishi lagoon, where you can see sea turtles and bear fleas. The popular Ishigaki Island tour includes landing on "Phantom Island" and snorkeling at Ishisei Reef Lake!
↓ Click here for the plan to enjoy at Shihsi Jagoho ↓ Click here for the plan to enjoy at Shihsi Jagoho
See more recommended plans for Shihsi Jagoho
Blue Cave
Ishigaki Island has a "Blue Cave".Mysterious CaveDid you know that there is a "Blue Cave" in Japan? The "Blue Cave" is famous in Italy and on the main island of Okinawa,Blue Cave" also exists on Ishigaki IslandI will do so.
The "Blue Cave" in Ishigaki Island is not only for snorkeling, but also for cave exploration.
There is much more to the caves than snorkeling, such as light holes and stalactite caves that can be seen!
The sea is very beautiful and a popular spot for families with small children! SUP and sea kayaking are also available at the Blue Cave in Ishigaki Island.
↓ Click here for the plan to enjoy in the Blue Cave ↓ Click here for the plan to enjoy in the Blue Cave
↓ Learn more about the Blue Cave ↓
See more recommended plans for Blue Cave
Travel time: 20 minutes by car from Shin-Ishigaki Airport, 30 minutes from Ishigaki Port Terminal
Kabira Bay
Kabira Bay is one of only 17 places in Japan to be awarded 3 stars by the Michelin Green Guide Japon.Ishigaki Island's most scenic spotIt is.
The clarity of the water and the seven different colors of the ocean, which change depending on the time of day, make it an attractive place to visit, and the sunset from the beach is especially special. The magic hour, which occurs a few dozen minutes before and after sunset, is a sight to behold.
The underwater world that can be experienced by snorkeling in Kabira Bay is truly a natural aquarium! Colorful coral reefs and tropical fish await.
Kabira Bay has a very fast current and glass boats come and go.Individual swimming is prohibited.The following is a summary of the results of the survey.
To experienceMust take a tourThe guide will take you to a place where snorkeling is allowed. Our guides will take you to places where snorkeling is allowed, and even first-timers can rest assured that they will be well supported!
In addition to snorkeling, Kabira Bay also offers SUP and kayaking, so be sure to give them a try.
↓ Click here for the plan to enjoy in Kabira Bay ↓ Click here for the plan to enjoy in Kabira Bay
Learn more about Kabira Bay ↓↓
See more recommended plans for Kabira Bay
Travel time: 25 minutes by car from Shin-Ishigaki Airport, 30 minutes from Ishigaki Port Terminal
Maesato Beach
5 minutes drive from Ishigaki Port Terminal, at the spacious white sand beach attached to ANA Intercontinental Ishigaki Resort.Free of charge for non-guestsYou can enjoy it in
There are showers and toilets available! Snorkel sets can be rented, and during the summer months, there are lifeguards on duty, so you can snorkel with peace of mind.
↓ Learn more about Maesato Beach ↓
Travel time: 10 minutes from Ishigaki Port Terminal
Fusaki Beach
This is a natural long beach attached to Husaki Resort Village.Free of charge for non-hotel guestsand snorkel sets can be rented on the spot!
The beach is shallow and there are not many waves, and you can see colorful tropical fish and coral reefs that are second to none.
The view of the sunset near the pier is outstanding, so you can watch the sun set with your lover, friends, or family after snorkeling!
↓ Learn more about Husaki Beach ↓
Travel time: 15 minutes from Ishigaki Port Terminal
Sukuji Beach
The beach is about a 10-minute drive from Kabira Bay, so it is easy to stop by during a drive.
The shallow waters of this beach make it suitable for swimming and beach play, but be aware that it becomes shallow at low tide, making it difficult to swim!
Sukuji Beach has a BBQ corner (fee required/reservations required), where you can enjoy not only snorkeling but also various other activities.
During the busy season from July to September, there is a lifeguard on duty, so it is safe for children. The shaded area is also a good place to relax, and is recommended for those who are not that good at swimming!
↓ Learn more about Sokoji Beach ↓.
Travel time: 40 minutes by car from the remote island terminal
Ishigaki Island Sunset Beach
Located on the nature-rich Koura Coast in the northern part of the island,Highly reputable beachesIt is the clearest and most attractive place on the island, and it can be swum even at low tide. The water is the clearest on the island and is swimmable even at low tide.
There is a fee to enter the beach, but the safety of the beach is ensured. The sand is fine enough to walk on barefoot, and there are not that many people.
There is also a BBQ corner and a store (summer only), so you can have a good time just by visiting.
↓ Learn more about Sunset Beach in Ishigakijima ↓.
Travel time: Approximately 40 minutes by car from Shin-Ishigaki Airport
Yonehara Beach
It is one of the favorite beaches among the locals living in Ishigaki Island. It is famous for the point where you can see overlapping coral reefs called "W Reef" just off the beach.
However, the offshore areas where the W Reef is visible can sometimes have strong currents, so it is recommended to join a snorkeling tour.
↓ Learn more about Yonehara Beach ↓.
Travel time: Approximately 40 minutes from Ishigaki Airport by car (open road)
Shiraho Coast
The largest blue coral in the northern hemisphereShiraho Beach, where you can see the world's largest blue coral and more than 70 other types of corals. At first glance, it appears to be an ordinary beach, but if you look into the underwater scenery, you will see not only the world's largest blue coral, but also more than 70 different types of corals.
Divers come from all over the world to enjoy the beautiful coral reefs, and the area is also famous as a diving mecca. The waves are calm near some of the beaches, so snorkeling and swimming can be enjoyed.
↓ Plan to have fun at Shiraho Beach
↓ Learn more about Shiraho Coast ↓
Travel time: 5 minutes by car from Ishigaki Airport
Kabira Manta Point
It is not an exaggeration to say that Ishigaki Island is famous for "manta ray snorkeling.The best place in Japan to see manta raysIt is famous for its
It is a bit far from the port, about 30 minutes by boat, but there are so many customers who want to see manta rays.
You may have the luxury of seeing a large school of manta rays when you look under the ocean while snorkeling.
↓ Click here for the plan to go to Manta Point ↓ Click here for the plan to go to Manta Point
↓ Learn more about Manta Tours ↓
Recommended plan to see manta rays.
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6 snorkeling spots in Ishigaki Island
We also recommend snorkeling spots for those who want to relax and snorkel!
Nannu Hamacho Beach
Nannu Hamacho Beach is a man-made beach located just across the Southern Gate Bridge.
Lifesavers are on hand during the summer months to ensure that even small children can play safely. There is also an experience facility where visitors can interact with dolphins right next to Nannu Hamacho Beach, so it is a good idea to stop by after playing with the dolphins!
↓ Click here for the plan to enjoy Nannu Beach Town Beach ↓ Click here for the plan to enjoy Nannu Beach Town Beach
↓ Learn more about Nannu Beach Town Beach ↓.
Travel time: 28 minutes by car from Shin-Ishigaki Airport, 5 minutes by car from the remote island terminal
Osaki Beach
Osaki Beach is located in the northwest of Ishigaki Island beyond Nagura Bay. It has colorful coral areas in the shallows and is famous as a spot where sea turtles can be seen.
The island acts as a dike even in winter when the winds are strong from the north, so you can snorkel with peace of mind.
Travel time: about 30 minutes by car from Ishigakijima Island Terminal
↓ Click here to read the article in conjunction with ↓ ↓
Ishizaki Coast
Ishizaki Coast is relatively located about 40 minutes by car from Shin-Ishigaki Airport.A secluded beach with few touristsIt is.
There is a coral colony in the shallows of the beach, so even small children and those who are not good swimmers can observe the creatures. There are no facilities nearby, so be sure to prepare drinks and other activity supplies in advance.
Learn more about the Ishizaki Coast ↓↓
Travel time: about 36 minutes by car from Ishigakijima Island Terminal
Hirano Beach
Hirano Beach is the northernmost cape of Ishigaki IslandNatural beach located east of HirakubozakiIt is. Hirano Beach is also not visited by many tourists because of its distance from the airport and Ishigakijima Island Terminal.
This is a spot where you can enjoy a view of a rich natural scene with few man-made structures. For those who do not like crowds orRecommended for those who want to feel private.It is.
Coral reefs grow in clusters and are home to an abundance of tropical fish. The reef serves as a breakwater, and the waves are calm, so even first-time snorkelers can enjoy snorkeling without worry.
↓ Learn more about Plain Beach ↓.
Travel time: 45 minutes by car from Ishigaki Airport
Kabira Tabaggar
Hateruma Island has been named "the most beautiful beach in the Yaeyama Islands" and "a place I want to visit again.porgyare often mentioned.
that (something or someone distant from the speaker, close to the listener)It is so beautiful that it rivals Nishi Beach.The beach known as "Kabira Tabagar" is the most popular beach in the area.
Kabira Tabaggar is a popular snorkeling spot because the current is almost nonexistent and the shallow waters are teeming with life. Real connoisseurs even visit Kabira Tabaggar,Snorkeling spots for those in the knowIt is.
Travel time: about 30 minutes by car from Ishigakijima Island Terminal
Yamahara Beach
Yamahara Beach is also known as "Crystal Beach,Areas where you can collect crystalIt is. Since the crystals flow in from the river, basically only small ones fall out. Larger sizes can be found upstream of the river.
Recently, many people visit for snorkeling rather than crystal collecting. There are corals and tropical fish, and since there are few people, you can relax and enjoy the sea of Ishigaki Island.
However, the sea at Yamahara Beach isarea of high incidence of rip currentsand there are areas with fast currents. Since there are no life-savers stationed there, it is recommended that you visit on a tour.
Travel time: about 30 minutes by car from Ishigakijima Island Terminal
It can be reached by ferry from Ishigaki Island!
4 snorkeling spots on remote islands
Finally, we recommend snorkeling spots among the remote islands around Ishigaki Island!
Click here for ferry reservations from Ishigaki Island
Taketomi Island】Kondoi Beach
Kondoi Beach is a popular beach in Taketomi Island. It has showers and changing rooms, and is ideal for snorkeling!
Taketomi Island is about 15 minutes away by boat departing from Ishigaki Island. Since you can go there in your free time, some people go snorkeling on their own after doing buffalo sightseeing and glass boat.
Snorkeling sets can be rented, and there are shady trees to relax on the beach.
↓ Learn more about Kondoy Beach ↓.
Travel time: 25 minutes on foot from Taketomi Port
↓ Click here for the article about Taketomi Island ↓ Click here for the article about Taketomi Island
Click here to book a ferry to Taketomi Island
Taketomi Island] Star Sand Beach
Next to Kondoi Beach in Taketomi Island, the famous Hoshi-suna Beach (Star Sand Beach) is where you can find over hundreds of kinds of colorful tropical fish and a lot of star-shaped sand.
When you get tired of swimming a little, it is fun to look for star sands while beachcombing. Tours of the star sand beach are very popular because small children can participate together!
↓ Learn more about Star Sand Beach ↓.
Time required: about 10 minutes by car from Taketomi Port
Iriomote Island] Barasu Island
Barras Island, a pure white island made entirely of coral reef fragments, is also called "Miracle Island" because it does not appear on any maps.
Snorkeling around Barasu Island is a particularly popular tour, and the 360° contrast of pure white coral and bright blue ocean will leave you speechless with emotion!
↓ Plan to enjoy Baras Island ↓
↓ Learn more about Baras Island ↓
Hatoma
Hatoma Island is located about 15 minutes by boat from Iriomote Island.Small island with a population of about 40 people.It is. The waters of Hatoma Island are called "Hatoma Blue," and are arguably the clearest in Japan.
Snorkeling in the cobalt blue sea is sure to impress you! A day tour from Uehara Port in Iriomote Island to snorkel at Barasu Island, Sea Turtle Spot, and Hatoma Island is popular. You can also join a day trip from Ishigaki Island.
↓ Learn more about Hatoma Island ↓
Click here to book a ferry to Hatoma Island
It's okay even if you don't have time!
Enjoy a Half-Day Snorkeling Trip on Ishigaki Island
For those who are thinking, “I’d like to go snorkeling on Ishigaki Island, but I can’t spare a whole day…,”Half-Day Snorkeling Tours: Choose Between Morning and Afternoon Sessionsis recommended.
The total time required, including travel, is about 3 to 4 hours. It’s easy to combine with sightseeing and other activities, so even if your stay is short, you can fully enjoy the beautiful sea of Ishigaki Island.
◆For those who want to spend either the morning or the afternoon sightseeing
◆For those who feel uneasy about spending long periods of time with small children
◆For those who aren't confident in their stamina and want to have fun in a short amount of time
◆For those who want to try it out casually on a budget
Choose between morning and afternoon flights!
How to Enjoy a Half-Day Snorkeling Trip
Half-day snorkeling tours on Ishigaki Island are generallyMorning and Afternoon FlightsThe system is divided into the following categories.
The sea is often calm before the wind picks up, making this a great option for those who want to get in a good swim. After the tour, you can spend the afternoon sightseeing or visiting nearby islands.
◆Afternoon Flight
This is the perfect way to spend your time—relaxing at the hotel in the morning and heading to the beach in the afternoon on the day of your arrival. Many people also spend the morning sightseeing in the city or enjoying the views of Kabira Bay before meeting up with the group.
For both flights, even including time for changing clothes and getting ready,Completed in half a daySo, it’s perfect for those who want to start having fun the very day they arrive on Ishigaki Island or who want to make the most of their time until their return flight.
Even just half a day is totally satisfying!
Recommended Half-Day Snorkeling Spots
You might be thinking, “Isn’t that too short?” but on Ishigaki Island,You can really enjoy yourself, even if it's just for half a dayThere are lots of spots.
Popular attractions such as the “Phantom Island” and the “Blue Cave” near the port, the scenic “Kabira Bay,” and “Manta Point”—which boasts Japan’s highest sighting rate—are often featured on half-day tours.
Since travel time is short, you'll have plenty of time to enjoy the underwater world.
In addition, beaches such as Maezato Beach and Fusaki Beach, etc.Beach Access SpotsIn that case, you can easily stop by for just a few hours to go for a swim. It’s perfect for anyone who wants to quickly enjoy the ocean during their free time.
Click here for half-day itineraries ↓
Recommended plans you can enjoy in half a day
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Ishigaki Island Snorkeling Notes
Snorkeling in Ishigaki Island is easily affected by the wind, and there are places where the tide is fast and the point where the water goes from shallow to deep at once.
There are also poisonous and dangerous creatures in the sea. To enjoy snorkeling safely, it is recommended to join a snorkeling tour.
What to wear and bring for snorkeling
In the summer when the sun is strong, swimming all the time can cause a mild burn on the back,rash guardWear a
For boat snorkelers.anti-travel sickness (medicine)I would also like to have
Swimsuit, clothing that can get wet, rash guard
◆Things to bring
Drinks, towel, sunscreen, sunglasses, anti-sickness medicine, etc.
Some areas do not have convenience stores nearby, so be prepared in advance.
Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions.
Conveniently located 5-minute walk from Ishigaki Port Remote Island Terminal
After the tour, shower and go sightseeing!
Ishigaki Island Shower Station is,5 min. walk from Ishigakijima Island TerminalIt is located in a very convenient location, with lockers and amenities to make your stay comfortable.
It is also nice that you can take a shower and go directly to the city center for a meal without having to return to your hotel once after the tour! Please take a look at this page for more information.
Access: 5 min. walk from Ishigakijima Island Terminal
Parking: Several pay parking lots are available in the vicinity.
Business hours: 10:00-18:00
Closed: Open all year round
Rent a car in Ishigaki Island♪
Click here for recommended plans
Must take a boat from Ishigaki Island to each remote island.
Buy your ferry tickets in advance!
To access each remote island (Iriomotejima/Taketomijima/Kohamajima/Kuroshima/Hatomajima) from Ishigakijima Remote Islands Terminal,Ferry boarding is required.It is.
At Ishigaki Island Tours, you can purchase ferry tickets in advance and check the latest ferry timetable and operation status! Please check it out before your trip!
Click here to book ferry tickets.
↓ Click here to read the article in conjunction with ↓ ↓
About Ishigaki Island Snorkeling Spots
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Sea conditions change with low and high tide and wind direction, so check with local stores and lifeguards on the day of your visit.
Considering safety and point selection, first-timers and those who are anxious about swimming should feel comfortable joining a tour.
However, as they are wild animals, there is no guarantee that you will see them, and you should keep an appropriate distance from them without chasing them or touching them.
summary
How about the snorkeling spots recommended by local snorkeling guides?
Ishigaki Island has many shallow beaches.Therefore, it is relatively safe for small children to play together. However, if you are new to marine activities or want to enjoy the spectacular underwater world of Ishigaki Island, we recommend joining a tour and having a veteran guide assist you!
Not only support,Guided tours to the best spots based on the sea conditions of the dayWe will do it for you. Why don't you experience snorkeling in Churaumi during your trip to Ishigaki Island?
↓ Click here to read the article in conjunction with ↓ ↓
![[Ishigaki Island / Approx. 2.5 hours] Same-day reservations accepted! SUP tour to the mystical “Blue Cave”★ A new experience in crystal-clear waters♪ Free photos](https://ishigaki-tours.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/DB89F99F-C338-4E76-BC19-CEC4FDDE95AC-1-825x510.jpeg)
